Foundation for Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (FURSCA)

The Foundation for Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (FURSCA) was established to promote and support student research, original scholarship and creative efforts in all disciplines. Through a number of programs, taking place at all points in a student's career at Albion, FURSCA can help students pursue independent study in their areas of interest. Students work closely with a faculty mentor to develop and carry out research or other creative projects. Participation in such projects provides valuable experience beyond the scope of classroom work, and enhances a student's preparedness for future employment or graduate studies. Some examples of FURSCA programs are listed below.

Student Research Partners Program—Geared toward first-year students, this program pairs a student with a faculty mentor to work on a project related to the faculty member's research or creative area. Students gain hands-on experience with scholarship in a specific field, and may elect to continue during their sophomore year. Participation is selective, based on high academic achievement, and stipends are awarded.

Semester Research Grants—Students may apply for funds to support research or other creative projects. Students must work closely with a faculty adviser; however, projects are not limited to any particular discipline. Grants may be awarded to pay for supplies, printing costs, subject payments, software or other costs associated with completion of the project.

Conference Grants—Students are awarded travel funds to help cover expenses associated with travel to attend professional meetings at which they will present the results of their research or creative projects.

Summer Research Fellowships—A select number of students may remain on campus during the summer, earning a stipend, to work on research or creative projects. In addition to working closely with a faculty adviser, students participate in weekly seminars with other students in the program.

Elkin R. Isaac Student Research Symposium—This annual symposium features student research and creative projects from the preceding year. Held each spring in conjunction with the Honors Convocation, this day-long event includes guest speakers and showcases the excellent creative work done by Albion College students.

For further information about FURSCA and its programs, see the FURSCA Web site, www.albion.edu/fursca, or contact the Director of FURSCA, or Starr Weaver, FURSCA coordinator.